2008 BMW X3 vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,016 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 121 kg more than 2008 BMW X3.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW X3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2002 Ford Explorer (321 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | X3 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 4016 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3070 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.3 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 85 L |
